When it comes to the automotive industry, few names carry the same weight as Ernie Boch Jr. A visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and music enthusiast, Boch Jr. has built on his family’s storied legacy to create one of the most successful automotive operations in the country. As the CEO of Subaru New England, one of only four auto distributors in the U.S., his influence extends beyond the business world, shaping both the industry and the communities he serves. In today’s episode of Executive Profile, host Jim Fitzpatrick travels to Norwood, Massachusetts, to spend the day with Ernie Boch Jr. This insightful conversation goes beyond business – it’s about legacy, leadership, creativity, and giving back.
A Family Built on Automotive Passion
The Boch family’s journey in the automotive sector began in 1938 when Ernie Boch Jr.’s grandfather established Boch Sales & Service in Norwood, Massachusetts. With a passion for cars and a talent for fixing them, he transitioned from a small garage to a growing business. When Boch Jr.’s father returned from the army, he joined the business, focusing on sales. Together, they expanded their operations, selling used cars, repairing vehicles, and even pumping gas.
However, their success nearly came to an abrupt end when an internal theft led to financial ruin. A loyal customer, Dominic Samsom of New England Merchant Bank, stepped in to save the business with a critical loan. This support allowed the Bochs to continue and eventually flourish, securing a Nash dealership in 1958, which quickly became the top Nash dealer in the country. They later expanded to Oldsmobile and Toyota, with Boch Toyota becoming the top-performing dealership in New England by 1980.
By the time Ernie Boch Jr. took over in 2003, the business had grown to include Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi franchises. His family’s Subaru distributorship, acquired in 1971, remains one of only four in the world., operating with a unique single-point dealer model.
A Business Philosophy Rooted in Integrity and Excellence
Boch Jr. has always been a firm believer in doing what’s right—especially when it comes to customer relationships. At a time when many dealerships were overinflating prices and selling cars above sticker price, he intervened to keep his dealers in line, reinforcing a commitment to fairness and long-term customer trust.
His philosophy extends beyond pricing; he emphasizes the importance of hiring and retaining top talent through paying employees well, treating them well, and creating an environment where they want to work. He believes that the energy of a dealership is palpable when walking through the doors, and success is only possible when a company surrounds itself with exceptional people.
He also insists that success requires complete dedication. In order to become wildly successful, individuals must accept that at the beginning of the building process, there is no balance or time off. They must fully dedicate themselves to the process and once they’re successful, then they can enjoy the fruit of their labor.
Building a Sustainable Legacy
A third-generation leader in the business, Boch Jr. is deeply invested in the long-term sustainability of his family’s enterprise. His approach to succession planning is pragmatic: designate a clear leader rather than dividing the assets equally. He acknowledges that as a parent, this concept can be difficult to accept, but it’s the secret to maintaining a legacy that transcends generations.
He has three children, and while he doesn’t expect all of them to follow in his footsteps, he has raised his son to take over as the fourth-generation leader. His son attends Northwood University, an automotive-focused school, ensuring he gains the knowledge and skills to carry the business forward.
A Passion for Philanthropy and Music
Beyond business, Boch Jr. has a deep commitment to philanthropy, particularly through his foundation, Music Drives Us. The organization funds public school music programs and supports local musicians and organizations throughout New England. Typically, when schools make budgetary adjustments, the music program is the first thing that’s cut. Music Drives Us mission is to ensure the arts remain accessible.
His love for music extends into his personal life as well. An avid guitarist, he has played alongside some of the biggest names in rock and roll. He even produces the jingles for his company’s commercials, ensuring that his passion is embedded in every aspect of his brand.
In addition to Music Drives Us, his company supports the Subaru Love Promise initiative, which has donated millions of dollars to various charities. For every car sold in December, a portion of the proceeds is directed toward four different organizations, involving dealers in the company’s broader mission of giving back.
A Legacy Built to Last
Ernie Boch Jr. is more than just an automotive executive—he is a leader, an innovator, and a philanthropist dedicated to leaving a lasting impact. From his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices to his belief in the power of music and philanthropy, his legacy is well-established. As he prepares for the next generation to take the reins, he continues to drive forward, ensuring that the Boch name remains synonymous with success, integrity, and generosity.
"Dedication is everything. If you dedicate yourself to what you want with blinders on and don't listen to the naysayers, you will be successful." – Ernie Boch Jr.
